SA Sound

Barbara Wolfe, Former Casbeers/San Antone Owner, Has Passed Away

Barbara Wolfe shortly after renaming Casbeers at the Church (photo by Aly Tadros)
Barbara Wolfe, who co-owned Casbeers, Casbeers at the Church and the renamed San Antone Café & Concerts until its closing in 2011, passed away this morning, according to singer-songwriter/producer Lisa Morales. The reason for her passing could not be confirmed.
"We're all shocked," said Morales, who used to perform for Wolfe and co-owner/husband Steve Silbas in the old Casbeers location on Blanco before the couple moved to S. Alamo (the original Casbeers location remains in operation). "Augie [Meyers] told me about it this morning, and we're all so sad. It was a pleasure playing [for Wolfe and Silbas]. She was always giving, giving, giving... She made musicians feel comfortable."
Morales and Meyers are among the artists scheduled to perform at Morales' Toys for Tots event at Sam's Burger Joint on Wednesday, December 11, which will be dedicated to Wolfe's memory.
On her Facebook page, Morales called Wolfe "my dear friend, an exceptional person of this San Antonio music community."
"I have to say, though, that in her spirit we have to make sure it's an extra-special upbeat day—that's how she was and that's how she would want it! So go seize the day—and if you really want to remember her: Do something nice for someone else! God Bless You Barbara! And Steve, my arms are hugging you."
"I didn't mean for this news to get leaked via Facebook," wrote Silbas on Facebook at 12:35 p.m. Monday. "Now that it is I just have to roll with it. I do appreciate the messages, I will have more details soon."
Towards the end of San Antone run, I had the opportunity to speak to Wolfe on several occasions about the controversial usage of the name Casbeers on the S. Alamo location. Wolfe was always willing to talk candidly about it, never dodged any question and always made sure my visits to Casbeers at the Church and then San Antone were pleasant. Rest in peace, Barbara. What you and Steve did for the local music scene will never be forgotten.
Shortly before San Antone closed, Wolfe posed by the vitraux one last time. (photo by Enrique Lopetegui)